Located just off the coast of Helsinki, Suomenlinna is one of Finland’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a unique combination of fascinating history and stunning nature, making it an excellent destination for a day trip.
In this post, you will find information on how to get to Suomenlinna, what to see, and how to make the most of your visit.
How to Get to Suomenlinna
Suomenlinna is easily accessible by ferry from Helsinki’s Market Square (Kauppatori). The ferry ride is part of Helsinki’s public transport system (HSL), meaning it operates under the same zone-based ticketing system as other local transportation. To get from Market Square to Suomenlinna, you will need an AB zone ticket, which costs 3,20 € for adults. The ticket is valid for 80 minutes and can be used on all public transport within these zones. This means you can take a tram to Market Square and then continue your journey to Suomenlinna using the same ticket.
Tickets can be purchased conveniently via the HSL mobile app, from ticket machines, or at R-kioski stores. The HSL app is particularly useful as it also provides schedules and routes from your departure point to your destination, including all necessary modes of transport.
The ferry ride from Market Square to Suomenlinna takes about 15 minutes and is an experience in itself. On a sunny day, you can enjoy the fresh sea air on the outdoor deck while admiring the Helsinki archipelago and the city skyline. Alternatively, if the weather is chilly, you may prefer to sit indoors and enjoy the ride in comfort. However, if possible, the outdoor deck is the best option for taking in the views.
Arrival at the Island – Visitor Info and Snacks
Upon arrival, you will find the Suomenlinna Visitor Centre near the harbor. Here, you can get tips for your visit and pick up a map to help navigate the island’s many attractions. The Visitor Centre also has restrooms, though there are additional facilities throughout the island. The building itself, known as the Rantakasarmi (Shore Barracks), is a historic site worth seeing.
Next to the harbor, you’ll also find Suomenlinna’s only grocery store (K-Market), where you can stock up on picnic supplies for the day. In the summer, Suomenlinna is a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic with delicious snacks. The island has plenty of grassy areas, rocky outcrops, and seaside cliffs where you can find a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view.
Of course, Suomenlinna also has several cafés and restaurants, most of which are located near the main dock.
Must-See Sights in Suomenlinna
Suomenlinna is full of history and fascinating places to explore, and much of the island is freely accessible. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
The King’s Gate (Kuninkaanportti)
The most iconic landmark of Suomenlinna, the King’s Gate, was built in the mid-18th century and serves as a symbol of the fortress. This massive gate is particularly impressive and offers great photo opportunities. Take a moment to admire its details and the beautiful seascape beyond.
Bunkers and Cannons
Step into history as you explore Suomenlinna’s old bunkers. These fortress tunnels are open in several places, but be aware that they can be damp and dark inside. Bringing a flashlight or using your phone’s light is recommended to avoid wet shoes. The bunkers are fascinating but may not be ideal for those with claustrophobia.
The fortress walls and embankments are dotted with old cannons, which tell the story of Suomenlinna’s military past. One of the best places to see these is at the Kustaanmiekka Fortress in the southern part of the island. If you time your visit right, you can watch cruise ships pass through the narrow Kustaanmiekka Strait at an incredibly close distance.
The Great Courtyard (Suuri Linnanpiha)
The Great Courtyard was once the main square of the fortress and is surrounded by impressive historic buildings. At the center of the courtyard lies the tomb and monument of Augustin Ehrensvärd, the founder of Suomenlinna.
The Dry Dock (Telakka)
Suomenlinna’s dry dock is one of the oldest still-functioning dry docks in the world. While the dock itself is not open to the public, you can view it and the ships being restored from a nearby observation platform.
Submarine Vesikko
For a unique experience, visit the Vesikko submarine, where you can step inside and see what life was like in an actual World War II submarine. Vesikko is now a museum, and entry requires a separate ticket, which also grants access to the Military Museum.
Suomenlinna’s Museums and Exhibitions
There are several museums on Suomenlinna that provide a deeper understanding of the fortress’s history:
- Suomenlinna Museum – Showcasing the island’s general history with fascinating artifacts from different time periods.
- Military Museum (Sotamuseo) – Focuses on Finland’s military history from the country’s independence onward and provides insight into the life of a soldier.
- Ehrensvärd Museum – Located in the Great Courtyard, this museum is set in an 18th-century residence and tells the story of Suomenlinna during the Swedish era.
Naval academy barracks area
Near the main dock and the grocery store, you can cross a bridge to Pikku-Musta Island, home to the Naval Academy’s barracks. Previously, visitors could walk through a designated section of this area, but due to the current global situation, access is currently restricted.
Suomenlinna – A Perfect Day Trip from Helsinki
Suomenlinna offers something for everyone. You can spend the day exploring bunkers, admiring the old cannons and the fortress walls with their stunning sea views, or take a more relaxed approach by enjoying a summer day on a café terrace or with a picnic. The island is just the right size to explore at a leisurely pace, and there is plenty to see to keep you engaged throughout the day.
Tip: If you have the time, stay to watch the sunset. The island’s maritime scenery is at its most breathtaking when the evening sun sets on the horizon, bathing the fortress in warm, golden light.
